2017-05-08 - City Explores Program to Assist Low Income Residents with Water Conservation

The City of Charlottetown Water and Sewer Utility Department is exploring the possibility of offering a Low Income Financial and Technical (LIFT) program for low income customers of the Utility.

The intent of the program would be to provide those in need of assistance with an opportunity to have their home checked for leaks and, if required, have low flow devices, such as showerheads and aerators, installed to promote water conservation. Provisions will also be made to have toilets checked and higher flow toilets replaced if deemed necessary.

"Water conservation is important to our residents, especially with the transition to a water meter," said Mayor Clifford Lee. "The City is in the early stages of discussion with efficiency PEI and the Province to potentially form a partnership on administering and managing this project."

The City is looking to model the new LIFT program after the provincial government’s Home Energy Low-income Program (HELP) that is administered by efficiency PEI, and available to Islanders with an average household income of $50,000 or less.

"We have a number of water conservation initiatives on the go. The LIFT program is to be more inclusive. It is intended to provide assistance to our customers so they can make small changes that can make a big difference in water usage over the years," said Councillor Edward Rice, chair of Water and Sewer Utility. "We hope to have the details of this program finalized in the next few weeks, at which time an announcement will be made and we will start accepting applications."

For more information on water conservation initiatives and tips, visit: www.charlottetown.ca/waterconservationtips.php.